Washington’s own Erik Hansen, whose most famous gig was with the band Fallen Angels, steps Newly into the solo spotlight with his new EP, Seasons of the Wind III. This four-track collection captures a strong essence of Hansen’s devotion to rock music's raw, unpolished nature.
A cross between Thin Lizzy, Black Sabbath, and Soundgarden, all influences to be sure, Hansen crafts a sonic tapestry that strikes a nostalgic bone while existing in the here and now. At just under 16 minutes, Seasons of the Wind III wastes no time putting listeners in the positions of its palpable energy and earnest lyrics.
Stand-out tracks, such as "Free Me" and "Take Me Home," pack a punch of hard-hitting riffs matched with storytelling and a wide array of emotions, highlighting just how diverse Hansen can be as a writer. “Free Me” crackles with anthem-mongering intensity, while “Take Me Home” is a poignant and contemplative journey that remains long after the last notes fade.
Hansen’s guitar work is as spirited as ever, each chord and solo a tribute to his deep respect for rock’s golden era. Along with his gritty yet soulful vocals, the EP embodies a windswept physical and metaphorical journey through seasons of change, resilience, and self-discovery.
For lovers of classic rock reinvented for the times, "Seasons of the Wind III" is an essential listen. With a December release, the latest Hansen offering guarantees rock fans everywhere will have an enduring soundtrack to end the year with a bang.
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